Search - Holly Hofmann :: Take Note!

A star is born

James A. Vedda | Alexandria, VA USA | 03/03/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Recorded in 1988 and released the following year, this was Holly Hofmann's debut album. Once you listen to the first track, a lively rendition of "My Ship," you know you're onto something special: a beautiful, rich flute sound, classical precision that doesn't sacrifice emotion and style, and no gimmicks (like electronics or humming into the instrument). A couple more tracks of blues, ballads, and swing, and you'll know that a new star of jazz flute has emerged.

A nice assortment of material shows off Holly's talent and that of her exceptional rhythm section. There are blues tunes ("Groove Merchant" and "Some Other Blues"), seduction songs ("If You Could See Me Now," "But Beautiful," and "Ceora"), a jazz waltz ("Thoughts of You"), and a couple that move right along (the aforementioned "My Ship" and "Winter Sleeves"). The 10 tracks total about 58 minutes of great music. I'm sure you'll listen to this over an over, and find yourself browsing for Holly's other CDs."